The fruit trade in Kashmir is poised for a significant uplift with the ongoing integration of the region's railway stations into the national network. The introduction of Kapurthala's Rail Coach Factory's 3 phase MEMU trains on the newly electrified route promises an enhanced passenger experience and environmental benefits. Bashir Ahmad Bhat, a leader in Kashmir's fruit trade, views the rail expansion as a monumental advantage for fruit dispatching. Similarly, Fayaz Ahmad, representing Sopore's fruit market, anticipates relief in transportation challenges, potentially mitigating the losses experienced during highway closures. This rail project is not just a triumph in infrastructure but a catalyst for the economic prosperity of Kashmir's predominant apple industry, which significantly contributes to the region's GDP and supports a vast network of farming families.

Source: Hindustan Times February 22, 2024 13:48 UTC